Florida Family Travel: Orlando vs Clearwater

If you’re looking for a family friendly holiday, look no further than the sunshine state! There are many reasons to travel to Florida, from the fantastic culture, to the desirable climate, to the great American food and the gorgeous natural scenery. There are plenty of things about Florida that make it just plain awesome – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Known across the planet as the happiest place in the world, Walt Disney World and the Orlando area is a wildly popular destination for vacationers and holiday makers. Disney world is something everyone must do at least once in their lifetime, and It’s about more than just the rides. From the characters coming to life, to the familiar music we all know and love, to the parades, shows and fireworks; Disney world is an experience. It’s the fulfilment of childhood dreams. Furthermore, Disney seeks to educate as well as entertain; their attractions tell a great story that lives on with visitors long after the thrills of the rides have faded into memory. This is the unforgettable magic.

Most people are under the assumption that theme parks are only worth going too in the summer months; well, Disney world routinely adopt holiday decorations for Christmas and Halloween, with attendant shifts in the parades and attractions. Florida is an incredible place to celebrate the holidays in both style and comfort at a wonderful hotel or resort.

While Disney cater for children and families, it also provides many enticements for adults. If golf is your thing get a private lesson on course, or venture out into the Wide World of Sports complex, which regularly hosts various sporting events. Disney’s ‘Epcot’, contains international pavilions with an emphasis on the culture and history of foreign nations. Epcot also hosts an International Flower and Garden Festival every spring and an International Food and Wine festival every fall. For those who can shop till they drop, the Downtown Disney district contains numerous stores and boutiques. If Disney still doesn’t appeal to you, Orlando also offers other phenomenal theme parks such as SeaWorld and Universal Studio’s. And let’s not forget the water parks! Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard beach are a must on your holiday schedule – let’s face it, you can’t come to Florida without floating down a lazy river.

Your family’s every need and want will be catered for; no matter how young or how old, there is really something for everyone to enjoy in Florida. For those with a mature appetite, check out the world’s largest collection of Tiffany glass at the Morse Museum in Winter Park. But when you’re ready to let your imagination soar again, visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. When night falls, Orlando has whatever kind of hotel you want – luxurious city high-rises or child friendly themed resorts.

Hotels will give you quick and easy access to Disney and Universal studios, so you can get to the parks bright and early and miss the queues! After your fun packed day, you’ll get back to your accommodation quickly with time to relax and enjoy Orlando’s evening entertainment. Or, get those kiddies to bed – they’re sure to sleep well!

However, we’re not all just in it for the parklife. For you beach bums, there are cheap hotels in Clearwater that have great beach access. Yes, they’re a little further away from the parks, but Clearwater is a great option for those looking to relax and unwind. Swimming is great for the heart, seawater is fantastic for the skin and coastal breezes are good for the soul – Clearwater could be the place you need for a healthy and revitalising break. Plus, did you know that Clearwater is ranked America’s best beach? One for the bucket list, right? A day by the ocean followed by fine dining and a massage treatment at your hotel, you’ll be winning at life.

If you can’t decide where to stay, just go for the best of both worlds! Stay in Orlando and visit Clearwater beach for the day if you fancy a down day after one two many vertical drops. Alternatively, have a beach holiday with a few day trips set aside for your favourite parks. Which ever you decide, you’re in for a fabulous treat.

Have you been to either city before? Would love to hear your about your experiences!

*This post is part of Trip.com’s Underdog City campaign.